System, article and method for tracking an inventory

ABSTRACT

The present invention pertains to a storage facility containing consumable items that updates an inventory when items are stored, removed and consumed. A product scanner and a computer installed in the facility use RFID technology to determine if an item has been consumed or removed from a locale. Items in the facility have RFID tags attached. The system interrogates the tags and if a tag becomes disabled, displaced or non-existent due to consumption or removal from a locale the system provides instantaneous status. The computer transmits consumption information to a central location for billing, inventory management, market research information and can transmit the same to other processing units such as hand held computers possessed by staff that replenishes the facility. This system prevents used items from being placed back into the housing facility and being incorrectly accounted for as usable/billable and provides for greater room servicing efficiencies.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application of co-pending U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/389,749, filed Mar. 27, 2006, claims the benefitunder 35 U.S.C. 119 (e) of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.60/694,295, filed Jun. 27, 2005 and U.S. Provisional Application Ser.No. 60/760,001, filed Jan. 18, 2006, the entire contents of which areherein incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention generally relates to the field of inventory stores, suchas storage facilities, or commercial mini bars for beverages, snacks,gifts, sundries and other consumables.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART

Various portable cosmetic and toilet article cases have been disclosedthat carry toiletries, medicines and other sundry articles. Examples aredisclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos.: 6,886,695, 6,854,472, 6,796,431 and5,318,053. Other examples include U.S. Pat. Nos.: 1,613,536, 1,828,863and 5,163,457. Without limiting the present invention, it is believed tobe desirable to provide a cabinet that is easily transportable withinand between locations and that blends into the reflective properties ofa generally larger mirror or mirrored cabinet upon which it may beinstalled. However, portable cabinets typically are unsophisticated andare not equipped to accomplish automatic inventory tracking. Therefore,it may prove desirable to provide a cabinet that may be adapted for avariety of applications, ranging from a sundry or medicine dispenser toa vanity, with minimal redesign or manufacturing tooling, as well ashave the features of maintaining a record of its inventory.

Gibb, WO 2005/015510A1, discloses a computerized-sensing system for amini bar in a hotel room with a dispenser. The entire disclosure of Gibbis hereby incorporated by reference as if being set forth in itsentirety herein. Linton, US 20040232231A1, discloses a radio frequencyidentification method and system of distributing product from amicro-warehouse with a door. The entire disclosure of Linton is herebyincorporated by reference as if being set forth in its entirety herein.

Kipp, US 20050051624A1 discloses an apparatus and method for detectingtampering with containers and preventing counterfeiting, especially assuch tampering is detected by removal of a cap, however it does notaddress how such a system would operate in the larger context of asystem designed to track an inventory.

Without limiting the present invention, it is believed to be desirableto maintain a real time inventory control for items that are dispensedfrom any inventory storage facility such as industrial inventory storagefacilities, cabinets or in-room containments, but where the items maynot have been used, and which may be subsequently returned to theinventory. Likewise, it is believed to be desirable to maintain a realtime inventory control for items that are dispensed from a containmentand subsequently used. Also, it may prove desirable to inventoryaccounts or reduce billing errors that are caused by items being movedfrom containments but not used. Also, it may prove desirable to createadditional point of sale opportunities in applications such as hotelrooms. Additionally, it may prove desirable to increase efficiency byreducing staff costs associated with entering dwellings, checking thelevel of inventory related to sundries and/or consumables, and identifymissing items, without having to keep track of an exact location withinthe room. Additionally, it may prove desirable to provide a remoteinventory in real time (or substantially real time), while preventingunnecessary physical checking of items or unnecessary disturbing ofguests; the latter occurring when hotel service personnel have to knockon a hotel room door in order to determine if a replacement sundry isnecessary or if a room is vacant.

Radio frequency identification device (“RFID”) technology allows data tobe transmitted by a product containing an RFID tag, which is read by anRFID transceiver. The data transmitted can provide identification aboutthe product, such as date of purchase. RFID technology does not requirecontact or even line-of-sight to be read. Passive RFID tags can be assmall as 0.3 mm and do not require batteries since they are powered bythe radio frequency signal of a RFID transceiver. Passive RFID tags canbe read from a distance of about 30 feet and it is anticipated that asRFID technology improves passive RFID's will be read from further andfurther distances. Semi-passive RFID tags contain a small battery thatboosts the range. To track an inventory in a hotel room especially toascertain its use would prove to be am improvement of the current methodof physical inspection to ascertain if a product has been used.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention pertains to an inventory store, such as a minibar, a safe, a room, or other containment holding items thatautomatically records items being placed in and removed from aninventory storage, and thereby maintains a real-time inventory. Aproduct scanner and a computer installed in the container, or in theproximity of the container, indicate that an item has been placed,removed or returned by a service worker, or patron to provide at leastone of billing, inventory management, point of sale advertisement andmarket research information.

One aspect of the invention includes a system for tracking inventorycomprising: an inventory store such as a mini bar; one or moretransceivers for interrogating one or more RFIDs associated with one ormore articles; a processor in communication with the transceivers; codeoperable by the processor to increase the inventory when the one or morearticles enter the inventory store; code operable by the processor toinitiate a timer when the one or more articles are removed from theinventory store; code operable by the processor to decrease theinventory if one or more transceiver interrogations of a field indicatethat the one or more articles removed from the inventory store does notrespond to the interrogation or have been used; and whereby if one ormore transceiver interrogations of a field indicate that the one or morearticles removed from the inventory store have not been used, then theinventory is unchanged for the responding one or more articles providedthat the timer has not timed out.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a microprocessortransmits information as to the removal of an item for sale to a centrallocation in the facility, such as a hotel front desk or other centralprocessing unit, and to a hand held computer possessed by personnel,such as a hotel staff.

According to another aspect, an RFID tag is utilized on item packagingto track items for sale, and is adapted to be destroyed, i.e., have theresponsiveness to RF interrogation signaling disabled, when a userconsumes the item. Destroying the tag occurs upon opening the package ofa purchased item and indicates to the microprocessor via the RFinterrogation the item no longer exists. This prevents an item beingplaced back into the housing facility and being incorrectly accountedfor as usable/billable.

According to another aspect of the invention, a pair of RFID tags areutilized on one package to track when the item has been opened forconsumption. When one of the packaging components, such as a cap isdisassociated from the second component, such as a bottle, a transceiverthat interrogates RFID tags detects the resulting displacement. Thesystem subsequently accounts for the item having been used and generatesa corresponding line item in a related customer bill.

In yet another aspect of the invention, an RFID transmitting deviceinterrogates RFID tags affixed to product packaging, determines on aregular cycle the inventory resident, and not destroyed within an area,such as a hotel room.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention may be understood from the following detailed descriptionwhen read in connection with the accompanying drawings. The variousfeatures of the drawings are not specified exhaustively. On thecontrary, the various features may be arbitrarily expanded or reducedfor clarity. Included in the drawings are the following figures:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an empty configuration of acontainer according to an aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 2 a illustrates a sundry having a disabled RFID tag incorporatingproduct package in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 2 b illustrates a sundry having a disabled RFID tag incorporatingproduct package in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 3 a illustrates a system for dispensing and inventoryingconsumables in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 3 b illustrates a system for dispensing and inventorying inaccordance with an aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 4 a illustrates a product package in accordance with an aspect ofthe present invention;

FIG. 4 b illustrates a product package in accordance with an aspect ofthe present invention;

FIG. 4 c illustrates a product package in accordance with an aspect ofthe present invention;

FIG. 4 d illustrates a product package in accordance with an aspect ofthe present invention;

FIG. 4 e illustrates a product package in accordance with an aspect ofthe present invention;

FIG. 4 f illustrates a product package in accordance with an aspect ofthe present invention;

FIG. 4 g illustrates a product package in accordance with an aspect ofthe present invention;

FIG. 4 h illustrates a product package in accordance with an aspect ofthe present invention;

FIG. 4 i illustrates a product package in accordance with an aspect ofthe present invention;

FIG. 4 j illustrates a product package in accordance with an aspect ofthe present invention;

FIG. 4 k illustrates a product package in accordance with an aspect ofthe present invention;

FIG. 5 illustrates a computer system for inventory control in accordancewith an aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates a method for inventory control in accordance with anaspect of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the figures to be discussed, the circuits and associated blocks andarrows represent functions of a process according to an aspect of thepresent invention, which may be implemented as electrical circuits andassociated wires or data busses, which transport electrical signals.Alternatively, one or more associated arrows may represent communication(e.g., data flow) between software routines, and/or computing devices,particularly when the present method or apparatus of the presentinvention is embodied, in whole or part, as a digital process.

The present invention is particularly useful in connection with afacility where items are stored in a permanent inventory store orportable inventory store such as a container, a bathroom cabinet, amini-bar, amenity basket, safe, entire hotel room/suite or other form ofsecurity storage box. The present invention will be discussed as itrelates to sundry containers for non-limiting purposes of explanationonly. As shown in FIG. 1, one embodiment of the invention is a sundrycontainer having an inventory management system (not shown), such as byway of example and not limitation, a hotel bathroom. A user of thecontainer pushes a mirror for frontal access, such that a front panellowers via a gas cylinder-spring to a tray position. The openedcontainer reveals various toiletry items available for convenientpurchase. The compartments can be easily removed and replaced by othercompartmentalized interiors that suit its utility without significantre-design (e.g., cosmetic shelving, medication dispenser, shaving kit,contact lens organizer, etc.). By way of non-limiting example only, thesundry container may be secured to a stationary mirror or medicine chestmirror using a double-sided strong adhesive tape or 3M Dual Lock orVelcro (each Trademarks of 3M Corporation) tape. This allows for easyinstallation regardless of technical know-how. In the illustratedembodiment, the sundry container has mirrors on all sides so as to beaesthetically pleasing to the eye, particularly when installed on amirror.

FIG. 1 represents a perspective view of the empty configuration of anapparatus according to an aspect of the present invention. A compactcabinet 1 includes: a back panel 2; two side panels 4, each having amirrored surface; a top panel 6 that may also be mirrored; a bottompanel 10, and a hinged front panel 8, that may be mirrored and whenpushed, opens outward, collectively defining an interior cavity. Themirrored surfaces may optionally include magnification opticalproperties, to enlarge the view of reflected objects, and may optionallybe magnetized to hold metal objects.

One or more vertically oriented compartments 12 in the internal cavitymay optionally have a spring loaded or otherwise hinged panel. By way ofnon-limiting further example, compartment 12 may be configured such thatit opens with an outward motion, so that when main body front panel 8 isopened the prior restraint offered by the front panel 8 is removed, thusallowing the one or more vertically oriented compartments 12 to springforward and open.

In yet another embodiment, the front panel 8 may include a hinge systemthat permits the front panel 8 to open either into a horizontal trayposition or at a right angle.

The cabinet 1 illustrated in FIG. 1 stores and inventories, by way ofexample, sundry items such as is illustrated in FIG. 2 a and FIG. 2 b.The cabinet 1 includes one or more processors 13 and one or more RFIDscanners or transceivers (hereinafter referred to as transceivers) 3 totrack product entering and leaving its enclosure. Each product residentin cabinet 1 is outfitted with an RFID tag. In FIG. 2 b a productpackage 14 contains a consumable product, which in the illustrativeexample, is a tube of toothpaste 19. Affixed to box 14 is an RFID tag16. The RFID tag 16 is utilized to provide Stock Keeping Unit (“SKU”)identification or location information, and other specifics about theproduct tagged, such as price, color, date of purchase, etc.

In a non-limiting embodiment, RFID tag 16 contains a microchip (such asa silicon chip) and antenna that allow it to receive and respond toradio-frequency interrogations from an RFID transceiver. Each RFID taguniquely identifies the product to which it is attached. RFID tag 16 isscanned to retrieve the identifying information.

According to an aspect of the present invention, passive RFID tags,e.g., RFID tags having no internal power supply, may be utilized, e.g.,as tag 16 for product 19 as shown in FIG. 2 b. As shown in FIG. 2 a,minute electrical currents induced in the RFID tag antenna 18 a fromincoming radio frequency (RF) signals power a CMOS integrated circuitlocated in the tag to both power up and transmit a response. Passivetags conventionally signal by backscattering the carrier signal from thetransceiver, such that the antenna both collects power from the incomingsignal and also transmits the outbound backscatter signal. Passive tagsconventionally have practical read distances ranging from about 2 mm(ISO 14443) up to about a few meters (ISO 18000-6), depending on thechosen radio frequency. Conventional transceiver RFID technology can beused in a frequency range of about 800 MHz to about 1 GHz. In manyproducts the low power consumption enables read performances extended todistances up to 10 meters. Conventional RFID technology also featuressimultaneous operation of multiple tags employing anti-collision methodssuch that up to 460 tags per second can be reliably read. RFID chipstypically carry a maximum 2,000 bytes of data, although more complicatedRFID tags having greater storage and or processing capabilities may beused.

FIG. 3 a illustrates a system 300 for creating and tracking an inventorycomprising: a inventory store 1, a transceiver 3 for interrogating aRFID tag 16 associated with a consumable article such as sundry 14. Aprocessor 13 in inventory store 1 communicates with the transceiver 3such that when the one or more articles enter the inventory store 1 theRFID tag 16 in response to the transceiver 3 interrogation, communicateswith the transceiver 3, and in response thereto the transceiver 3communicates with the processor 13 having code operable by the processor13 to increase the inventory. The articles in the inventory store 1 arealso detected when they are removed from the cabinet during a selectionby a transceiver. The detection can optionally cause a timer to initiatea timeout stored in the processor 13 memory. Such timers can beimplemented in hardware or in software as resident in processor 13. Ifthe RFID tag of one or more articles removed from the inventory store 1do not respond to the transceiver 3 interrogation then the processor 13having code operable by the processor 13 decreases the inventory; andlikewise if the RFID tag of one or more articles removed from thecabinet 1 responds to the transceiver 3 interrogation then thetransceiver is not billed.

More particularly as shown in FIG. 3 a, product package 14 havingaffixed thereto an RFID tag 16 is stored in inventory store 1. Whenpackage 14 is selected by a user and removed from the sundry inventorystore 1 into a room as indicated by the designation FIELD, the removalis detected by a detection means, which may typically include one ormore RFID transceivers, such as RFID transceiver 3. RFID transceiver 3is depicted as mounted to inventory store 1; however one or more RFIDtransceivers may be installed anywhere, such as transceiver 20 ortransceiver/repeaters 23 a and 23 n, limited essentially by the abilityof any particular transceiver and an RFID tag's ability to communicatewith the transceiver. For example, inventory store 1 may be installed ina hotel bathroom; while a RFID transceiver/repeater is located in anadjacent room to meet the objects of the invention herein.

For non-limiting purposes of explanation, processor 13 will be discussedas it relates to a microprocessor implementing computer. Drawingattention to FIG. 3 a and FIG. 3 b, processor 13 having code operable bythe processor 13 has the ability to transmit and receive informationthrough one or more input/output (I/O) ports operating under acommunication protocol to and from a transmit/receive (T/R) transceiver3 device, transceiver 20, transceiver/repeater 23 a device, andtransceiver/repeater 23 n device. Transceiver 3 and all othertransceivers used herein may take the form of a conventional RFIDtransceiver. Transceiver 3 may periodically interrogate the RFID tagswithin its transmission and reception range. The periodic transmissionspermit processor 13, and associated software and/or firmware, toascertain the state of the current inventory within the transmission andreception range of transceiver 3 or any other transceivers receptionrange transmitting/receiving information to processor 13.

According to an aspect of the present invention, when a sundry, such asproduct package 14, is removed from the inventory store 1, and notreplaced within a predetermined period of time, as determined byprocessor 13 through periodic interrogations using transceiver 3, thenprocessor 13 having code operable by the processor 13 communicatessignals to one or more systems such as inventory management system 15and/or central processing system 11 (which may include a billingsystem), hotel desk monitor 19, and point of sale and market researchsystem 11 a to reflect consumption of the corresponding item or topermit the administration of the system to take appropriate action.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a first communicationfrom processor 13 sends information related to the removal, ordetermination of product usage via RF interrogation or replacement of anitem into the inventory store sundry cabinet 1 to one or more systemssuch as inventory management system 15 and/or central processing system11 (which may include a billing system), and point of sale and marketresearch system 11 a, front hotel desk monitor 19 and portable computingdevice 7 through a transmission channel, such as a WIFI transceiver, aBlue Tooth transceiver, a telephone line, a DSL telephone line, or ahigh speed digital network, all by way of non-limiting example. In asimplified form, one or more messages indicative of the changed productstate may be communicated and recorded. In other forms, centralprocessing system 11 (which may include a billing system) mayelectronically process the received information to automatically updatebilling and/or inventory databases in a conventional manner.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a second communicationfrom processor 13 sends information to the portable computing device 7,that may, for example, take the form of a personal digital assistant(PDA), such as a handheld Palm or similar device operated by a staffservicing the room from which the transmission emanates. This signal isreceived outside a guest's door, allowing staff, such as a maid, tocheck the bathroom sundry cabinet 1, a room closet, the room itself, ormini-bar without having to knock or open the door to the room. Suchstaff now has an immediate and current record of the inventory change.It is recognized that the central processor 11 or inventory managementsystem 15 rather than processor 13 may in an alternate embodiment sendinventory information directly to the portable computing device 7, aftercentral processor 11 or inventory management system 15 are updated viaprocessor 13.

It is apparent that more than one sundry may be removed from theinventory store at any given time. Nevertheless the system 300 continuesto keep track of all existing non-used products utilizing techniques andmethods well known to those skilled in the art of RFID technology. Forexample, many RFID systems employ an Aloha protocol as an anti-collisionmechanism, which serves as but one type of protocol that the presentinvention may employ. The Aloha protocol sorts through a population ofRFID tags and assigns each a node address. Transceiver 3 sends out arequest command to all tags in its range. The tags respond by selectinga random number. This random number becomes the tag's slot number. Thetransceiver 3 then polls the tags in its range for slot number zero (0).All tags that have chosen a random number of zero (0) respond. Ifexactly one tag responds, then the transceiver 3 assigns a unique nodeaddress to the tag. If more than one tag responds, the transceiver 3ignores the response. The polling proceeds with the transceiver 3polling for the next slot number. Upon reaching the end of the pollingsequence, the transceiver 3 starts again by requesting tags that havenot been assigned a node address to select a new random number. Thisprocess continues until all tags in range have been assigned unique nodeaddresses. At this time communication with individual tags occurswithout a collision threat. In the present invention, the transceiver 3establishes and stores a sundry article's tag slot number as it isinitially inventoried in the inventory store 1. Thereafter, when thearticle is removed from the inventory store 1, the transceiver againstores an article's identification and thereafter need only scan for thearticles that have left the inventory store 1 and that do not have adefinite disposition, as for example determined to be used.

According to an aspect of the present invention, using a productdisables an associated RFID tag, such that the package cannot be reused,as in some instances to “fool” the system that an item is being returnedfor credit. Commercially available RFID tags are measured at 0.4 mm×0.4mm, and are thinner than a sheet of paper. Accordingly, such RFID tagsare practically invisible. However, these tags may prove difficult todestroy. According to an aspect of the present invention and by way ofnon-limiting example, the RFID tag may be manufactured with a printingprocess that serves to create the antennae. One method of disabling thetag is to destroy the effectiveness of the antenna.

According to another aspect, an RFID tag is utilized on item packagingto track items for sale, and is adapted to be destroyed, i.e., have theresponsiveness to RF interrogation signaling disabled, when atransceiver interrogates the item. Destroying the tag occurs uponopening the package of a purchased item. When the transceiver does notget a transmitted response from the RFID tag as a result ofinterrogation within its range, it sends a signal to processor 13 thatthe item no longer exists within that range. Processor 13 thendetermines from the data retrieved from other transceivers associatedwith it that the item no longer exists in the entire predetermined rangeand has been consumed. This prevents an item being placed back into thehousing facility and being incorrectly accounted for as usable/billable.As illustrated in FIG. 2 a, according to an aspect of the presentinvention, the RFID tag 16 and associated functional antenna 18 a. Whenthe package is opened the antenna is severed as shown with reference toantenna portion 18 b. In FIG. 2 b opening package 14 exposes as forexample product 19. In opening the package 14 the RFID tag 16 antenna issevered as shown with reference to antenna portion 18 b. Alternatively,where the antenna is printed, the antenna may be disconnected from theRFID tag body when the package is twisted or torn open to retrieve thecontents.

According to another aspect of the invention, the sundry inventory store1 may include a Faraday shield so as to electromagnetically insulateitems therein from external electronic radiation utilized ininterrogating the room. More particularly, according to an aspect of thepresent invention, upon a product being removed from the inventory storecabinet 1, an RFID tag affixed to the sundry may be interrogated by atransceiver 3 to collect data useful for verifying what is entering andleaving the cabinet 1 inventory store. The collected data is typicallyprovided to processor 13. When the product leaves cabinet 1 transceiver3 detects the event and updates processor 13. If the product is returnedto the sundry cabinet 1, it again passes through the interrogation fieldof transceiver 3 (e.g., a gateway interrogator). The reception of anRFID response is provided to processor 13. If the attached RFID tag isdetermined by the management system to have previously becomenon-responsive to interrogation by for example transceiver 20, processor13 management system concludes the corresponding product was consumed.Transceiver 3 and transceiver 20 interrogation may be performed at aperiodic rate depending on a design choice as for example, every 1, 2,5, 10, 15, 20 or 30 seconds, all by way of non-limiting example, so thatany change occurring within that interval is noted as either a selectionor a return. Of course, faster or slower rates may also be used. In theevent that the item is returned to the sundry container in an unopenedcondition, the inventory can be reversed.

As illustrated in FIG. 3 a, according to an aspect of the presentinvention, semi-passive RFID tag 16 incorporates no power source,however a power source such as a battery, may be used. A battery wouldallow the tag integrated circuit to be constantly powered. In such anembodiment, the antenna 18 a would not need to collect power from theincoming signal. Antenna 18 a could therefore be optimized forbackscatter signaling. Further, semi-passive RFID tags are generallyfaster in response and therefore stronger in reading ratio compared topassive tags. By way of non-limiting example, as with the passive RFIDtags, semi-passive RFID tags may be manufactured using a printingprocess that creates the antenna. Using a semi-passive RFID tag mayfacilitate detection by remote RFID interrogators positioned remote frominventory store 1.

As illustrated in FIG. 3 a, the transceiver 3 is focused across theinventory store 1 opening to operate as a security gate to detectwhether a sundry has been removed from and/or placed into the sundrycontainer. Optionally, one or more directional antenna can be used forinterrogation signaling to mitigate potential cross-talk from productshaving RFID tags inside the inventory store 1. Alternatively,transceiver 3 generally interrogates inventory store 1 and collisionavoidance may be used. In either event, if a user returns the sundry,the item is recorded as being present (e.g., a register may beincremented, a flag set or a bit set) and the inventory updated. Moreparticularly, the transceiver 3 comprises a transceiver and a decoder,and emits a signal activating through its antenna (not shown) the RFIDtag 16 so as the tag is read and/or transmits data to the transceiver 3.In this manner, the inventory is created and recorded when an RFID tagpasses in the direction BA through the electromagnetic RF interrogationfield associated with a transceiver 3. Essentially, a removed productstatus is determined from the inventory established when the product isinitially placed in cabinet 1. In the illustration the RFID tag 16detects the transceiver 3 activation signal and the RFID tag 16 respondsby transmitting a code encoded in the tag's integrated circuit (siliconchip) indicative of what it is (e.g. “SKU”). The transceiver 3 reads thedata and the data is passed through processor 13 and then to the hostcomputer 11. Likewise, when the RFID tag 16 passes in the direction ABthrough the electromagnetic RF interrogation field associated with atransceiver 3 the processor 13 and/or central processor flags the eventsignifying that a product such as sundry 14 has been removed. A removedproduct status is determined from the inventory established when theproduct was initially placed in cabinet 1. Whether the data is processedat the transceiver 3 or processor 13 or central processor 11 is a designchoice. The application software typically used in this process oftenemploys Physical Markup Language (PML). PML is a markup language basedon XML for communicating a description of physical environments and theobjects within them, their relationships to the user of the productassociated with an RFID tag, and the space where the product may becontained.

Although RFID tags are usually intended for short-distance use, they canbe interrogated from greater distances utilizing a high-gain antenna orutilizing additional scanners that transmit and receive RFID tag inputdata and retransmit the data to a remote receiver, allowing the contentsof a room to be scanned for RFID packaged goods anywhere in a room orsuite of rooms. As shown in FIG. 3 a and FIG. 3 b, when long distancesbetween the transceiver 3 and the package such as package 14 cause adeterioration in RFID tag return signals the system 300 may incorporateone or more transceiver/repeater combinations 23 _(a)-23 _(n).Transceiver 20 may have a direct connection or a radio connection tocommunicate with processor 13. Likewise transceiver 20 may have a directconnection or a radio connection to communicate with the one or morerepeaters 23 _(a)-23 _(n). In alternate configuration repeaters 23_(a)-23 _(n) may have a direct connection or a radio connection tocommunicate with processor 13. Each of these alternative communicationmodes are design choices.

In one embodiment of the present invention as shown in FIG. 3 b, theprocessor 13 sends a signal to the transceiver 20. Transceiver 20transmits and receives data communication from a remotetransceiver/repeater, such as one or more of the repeaters 23 ₁-23 _(n)to interrogate products, such as sundry package 14 that has been removedfrom the cabinet 1. One remote transceiver/repeater 23 ₁ is configuredto scan the field where the product such as sundry package 14 may besituated, such as within a FIELD or room as shown in FIG. 3 a. When thetransceiver 23 receives its RFID input it transmits the data to thetransceiver 20 and transceiver 20 communicates the data to processor 13.

Optionally, and particularly useful for individuals that may have avisual impairment, when an item is removed from the inventory store 1,and the attached RFID tag is identified, such as by processor 13, aconventional speech generator and speaker included in a computing device17 (FIG. 3 a) internal or external to inventory store 1, may be used toprovide an audible indication that identifies the product, such as: thesundry name, use instructions and product use warnings.

Optionally, device 17 also provides for video capability, such as byincorporating a liquid crystal display or technological equivalence(“LCD”) having corresponding menu screens. When processor 13 identifiesa removed item, one or more targeted promotional opportunities may beidentified and corresponding offers presented on the LCD. For example,“buy 2 get 1 free” offers may be presented by removing a single sundry.Optionally, a point of sale system 11 a may send audio and/video contentto the device 17 for targeted advertising (e.g., commercial for newrazor in the box, location of nearest hairdresser or barber, masseuse,gym, doctor, tailor etc.) from a programmed schedule. Optionally, a userinput, such as via a touch-screen or separate buttons can be used by aguest to confirm purchases (Yes or No questions) which input toprocessor 13 and communicated to point of sale system 11 a for furtherinteraction with the consumer.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a UPC reader 21 may beused in combination with, or in lieu of, one or more of the RFIDtransceivers. Such a UPC scanner 21 may be positioned in any convenientlocation on the cabinet 1 and made available to the guest to “selfpurchase” items. A guest chooses an item and then scans the UPC tag thathas been outfitted previously on the item with the miniature UPC laserscanner mounted on the sundry container. A method of multiple scans orLCD touch sensitive technology may be used to confirm purchases. Againthis information may be provided to processor 13.

In one embodiment the present invention when an item is selected andpulled out for usage and is not replaced within a certain time period,such as by way of example, one (1) hour, a timer implemented inhardware, firmware or software located in the processor 13 or centralprocessor 11 indicates that item has been selected and removed by acustomer or patron and further that the customer is to be charged forthe use. In this embodiment the inventory is decremented.

Different products or sundries typically require packaging suited fortheir intended purpose and may require particular transceivers. Sinceproduct packaging differs depending on the item for sale or use,different inventive solutions to provide an inventory system thatrecords when a product has been used, opened, consumed or removed fromthe room. In another embodiment of the present invention an associatedpair of RFID tags are installed on a product package. Having a pair ofRFID tags permits at least four (4) different states of the pair to beinterrogated. For example, tag W and tag X are both functioning, or tagW is functioning and tag X is not functioning or tag W is notfunctioning and tag X is functioning tag or finally neither W isfunctioning nor tag X is functioning. These combinations prove useful indetermining whether certain in-room convenience items are first utilizedand then whether the items are removed from the room. As for example, ifa bathrobe has contained thereon two RFID tags W and X and only W mustbe destroyed to use the bathrobe, but X need not be. After the robe wereused interrogating the tags W, X will disclose that the bathrobe wasused but not removed from the room. If subsequently the bathrobe were tobe removed from the room and not returned within a given period of timeas established in the processor 13 e.g., the front desk interrogatesprocessor 13 when a guest checks out, then the absence of a signal fromtag X would indicate that the robe was permanently removed from theroom, for which the customer would be billed.

In yet another non-limiting example, the transceiver 3 detects thereception of two associated RFID tags at two different intervals oftime. When the system 300 transceiver 3 interrogates the field itassociates a paired set of RFID tags having an equivalent orapproximately equivalent displacement determined from the time ofinterrogation of each until the time of reception at the transceiversource. The transceiver 3 or processor 13 logs the nearly identicalresponse times as emanating from the same product package. Upon openingof the package one of the pair of RFID tags is destroyed, however thesecond RFID tag remains in tact. When system interrogates the field, itonly receives one of the two previously recorded pairs and detects thedifference as indicating that a package has been opened.

In yet another non-limiting example tracking inventory may beeffectuated when the one or more articles have been used if two or moretransceivers (additional transceivers would provide for an exactlocation) determine that an associated pair of radio frequencyidentification devices installed on an article produce receptions fromdifferent locations. The transceiver 20 and 23 or any other pair oftransceivers as might be employed, may each independently detect thereception of two associated RFID tags at two different intervals oftime, which can each be related to differences in location within thefield. When the system 300 transceiver interrogates the field itassociates a paired set of RFID tags having an equivalent orapproximately equivalent displacement. However, when the paired set ofRFID tags do not have an equivalent or approximately equivalentdisplacement in any RF interrogation other than the initial scan, thiswould indicate the paired set of RFID tags have been moved away fromeach other. This would occur if one of the tags were attached to themain body of an item e.g., a bottle, and the other tag in the pair wereattached to a bottle top or cap. This would indicate the item was openedor used.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention an associated pair ofRFID tags are installed into a product package. In FIG. 4 a a productpackage in accordance with an aspect of the present invention includes acontainer 31 having a cap 35. Mounted integral to the cap 35 is an RFIDdevice 33. The RFID device 33 includes an antenna 32. The RFID device 33also may be molded into or bonded to the cap in any location usingfusing, glue or other suitable means known to those skilled in the artof plastic manufacture or bonding materials. A second RFID device 34 ismounted integral to the container 31 using techniques such as molding orbonding to the container in any location using fusing, gluing or othersuitable means known to those skilled in the art of plastic manufactureor bonding materials. The RFID device 34 includes an antenna 36. Beforethe 35 cap is separated from the container 31, the system 300interrogates the field containing the container 31 and associates thepair of associated RFID tags 34,33 as having equivalent or approximatelyequivalent displacements from the reader source and logs the nearlyidentical response times received as emanating from the same productpackage, container 31, in this example. Upon opening of the package thepair of RFID tags 34,35 are separated and therefore displaced havingbeen attached to different parts of the package, such as by cap 35having been removed and displaced from its container 31. In thisembodiment both RFID tags 34,35 remain in tact. When system interrogatesthe field, it receives the two previously recorded pairs and detects thetime displacement difference as indicating that a package has beenopened.

FIG. 4 b illustrates a product container 41 popular in dispensing liquidconsumable beverages in accordance with an aspect of the presentinvention. An associated disabling means or a leverage means such as tab42, as fixed to container 41 through fastening member 46, cooperate withRFID tag 44 which is bonded to the top of container 41 such that abreaking container seal 47 cooperates to sever or disable antenna 45 ofthe RFID tag 44. Tab 42 through a disabling or leverage force, breaksthe seal 47 with the aid of a score 43 to open the container. Integralto the score and/or opening is the RFID tag 44 antenna 45. Upon pullingthe tab 42, the container 41 score 43 gives way and the RFID tag 44antenna 45 is severed disabling the RFID tag 44 thereby indicating thatthe product container has been opened.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention is a containercomprising a cap, a body and a tab, wherein an associated antenna isconnected to the tab and the body of the container and which when thetab is removed severs the antenna. More particularly, FIG. 4 cillustrates a product container 51 suitable for dispensing liquids inaccordance with an aspect of the present invention where an RFID tag 54and an associated antenna 55 are attached via an adhesive bond to thebody of the container 51. The RFID tag 54 is also bonded to the cap 57.Integral to the tab 52 is the RFID tag 54 having an associated antenna(not shown). When the tab 52 is pulled, it forces the antenna to besevered from the RFID tag 54 thereby disabling the RFID tag andindicates the product container 51 has been opened.

FIG. 4 d illustrates a product container 61 suitable for dispensingfoods in accordance with an aspect of the present invention, where RFIDtag 66 and an associated antenna 64 are attached via a thermal, pressureor adhesive bond to the body of the container 61. By way of example andnot limitation container 61 may be manufactured from polyvinyl chloridefilm, super shrink polyolefin film or polypropylene. Integral to the tab63 is the RFID tag 66 antenna 64, such that when tab 63 is pulled forcesthe antenna 64 to be severed from the body of RFID tag 66 disabling theRFID tag 66 indicating the product container 61 has been opened.

FIG. 4 e illustrates a product container 71 suitable for dispensingfoods in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. An RFID tag72 and associated grid antenna 73 have a plurality of elemental antennaattached via a thermal, pressure or adhesive bond to the body ofcontainer 71. By way of example and not limitation, container 71 may bemanufactured from polyvinyl chloride film, super shrink polyolefin filmor polypropylene. Integral to one of two tabs 74 is the RFID tag 72 gridantenna 73, which when either of the tabs 74 is pulled it forces atleast one element of the grid antenna 73 to be severed from the RFID tag72 indicating the product container 71 has been opened.

An aspect of the present invention comprises a seal having a disablingmeans, and radio frequency identification device antenna integral to theseal whereby the disabling means acts upon the seal to disable theantenna. FIG. 4 f illustrates a product container 81 in accordance withan aspect of the present invention where an RFID tag 88 having anantenna 82 is bonded via a thermal, pressure or adhesive bond to aprotective foil seal 85 that is inserted into the top portion of thecontainer 81. By way of example and not limitation, container 81 may, bemanufactured from glass, metals or plastic such as polyvinyl chloride,polyolefin or polypropylene. Through the application of downward forcesa mechanical advantage means or manufactured weakness, such asperforated area 83 along the periphery of the foil 85, opens thecontainer 81. Integral to the foil 85 and/or opening is the RFID tag 88and associated antenna 82. Upon pushing perforated area 83, thecontainer 81 foil 85 gives way and the RFID tag 88 antenna 83 isdisabled.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention is an RFID tag bondedto a polyvinyl chloride film, super shrink polyolefin film, polypropleneor any other alternative shrinkable material useful in the process ofwrapping product. FIG. 4 g illustrates a full body shrink label 90 withan attached or bonded RFID tag 91, antenna 92 that spans a perforationand/or pull tab 93. After full body shrink label 90 is applied to aproduct, such as by way of illustration container 94, the perforationand/or tab 93 is utilized in accessing container 94. When theperforation and/or tag 93 is torn to access container 94, antenna 92 isdestroyed thereby disabling RFID tag 91 indicating the product has beenused or accessed.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention an RFID tag by way ofexample and not limitation is bonded via thermal, mechanical pressure oradhesive to a seal such as band 95, which may be manufactured frompolyvinyl chloride film, super shrink polyolefin film or polypropylene,all useful in the process of sealing a product. Such bands are useful inprotecting the integrity of the contents of the container. FIG. 4 hillustrates a seal in the form of a shrink band 95 with an attached orbonded RFID tag 91. The RFID tag 91 antenna 92 is integral to the sealwhereby a perforation or pull tab 93 of the band 95 provides thedisabling means to act upon the seal and to disable the antenna. Antenna92 of tag 91 spans a perforation or pull tab 93 of the band 95. Afterthe shrink band 95 is applied around a product 94 top or cap 99, theperforation and/or pull tab 93 may be utilized to access container 94.In this accessing process, antenna 93 is destroyed thereby disablingRFID tag 91 indicating the product in container 94 has been used oraccessed.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention an RFID tag bonded toa shrinkable material as previously mentioned useful for wrapping aproduct. FIG. 4 i illustrates a shrink bag 95 a with an attached orbonded RFID tag 91, and antenna 92 that spans a perforation and/orestablished pull tab 93. After the shrink bag 95 a is applied aroundproduct 96, the perforation and/or tab 93 is utilized in accessingproduct 96. In this accessing process, antenna 92 is destroyed disablingRFID tag 91 indicating the product 96 has been used or accessed.

FIG. 4 j illustrates a shrinkable bag 95 b with an attached or bonded aspreviously mentioned RFID tag 91 and an associated grid antenna 97having a plurality of elemental antenna that span perforations and/ortab 98. When either of the perforations and/or tabs 98 is pulled, itforces at least one element of the grid antenna 97 to be dysfunctionalfrom the RFID tag 91 indicating the product has been used or accessed.

FIG. 4 k illustrates by way of example and not limitation, a full bodyshrink label 90 with an attached or bonded RFID tag 91 and an associatedgrid antenna 97 have a plurality of elemental antenna that spans allperforations and/or tab 98. The RFID tag 91 by way of example and notlimitation is bonded via thermal, mechanical pressure or adhesive to thelabel such as a shrink label, which may be manufactured from polyvinylchloride film, super shrink polyolefin film or polypropylene, all usefulin the process of labeling a product. Other labels may be manufacturedfrom paper or other well-known materials utilized in the manufacture oflabels. When either of the perforations and/or tabs 98 is pulled itforces at least one element of the grid antenna 97 to be severed fromthe RFID tag 91 indicating the product has been used or accessed.

By way of non limiting example, the antenna for the illustrated RFIDtags can be applied to the shrinkable material useful for wrapping aproduct with the same rotogravure and/or flexography printing technique(in this case with metal infused inks) utilized for Universal ProductCodes or non or high gloss printed labels.

Those skilled in the art of computer programming will appreciate thatthe invention may be implemented in a system of computer unitscommunicatively coupled to one another over a network, such as a widearea network, local area network or the global interconnection ofcomputers and computer networks commonly referred to as the Internet.Such a network may typically include one or more microprocessor basedcomputing devices, such as personal computers. “Personal computer”, asreferred to herein, general refers to a general purpose computing devicethat includes a processor. “Processor”, as used herein, refers generallyto a computing device including a Central Processing Unit (CPU), such asa microprocessor. A CPU generally includes an arithmetic logic unit(ALU), which performs arithmetic and logical operations, and a controlunit, which extracts instructions (e.g., code) from memory and decodesand executes them, calling on the ALU when necessary. “Memory”, as usedherein, refers to one or more devices capable of storing data, such asin the form of chips, tapes, disks or drives. Memory may take the formof one or more random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM),programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-onlymemory (EPROM), or electrically erasable programmable read-only memory(EEPROM) chips, by way of further non-limiting example only. Memory maybe internal or external to an integrated unit including a processor.Memory may be internal or external to an integrated unit including apersonal computer. Memory preferably stores a computer program, e.g.,sequence of instructions being operable by a processor.

By way of further non-limiting example, in a distributed implementation,the system may typically include a local area network (LAN) of terminalsor workstations (e.g., PCs), telephone interfaces, database fileservers, input devices and output devices configured by software foraccumulating, processing, administering and analyzing attributes in anautomated workflow environment. “Server”, as used herein, generallyrefers to a computer or device communicatively coupled to a network thatmanages network resources. For example, a file server is a computer andstorage device dedicated to storing files, while a database server is acomputer system that processes database queries. A server may refer to adiscrete computing device, or may refer to the program that is managingresources rather than an entire computer.

By way of further, non-limiting example, FIG. 5 system 500 generallyincludes one or more computers 132, including a CPU 147 having anarithmetic logic unit (ALU) 137 for making mathematical calculations,and associated memory registers, program controls, input outputcircuitry; a memory 134 and one or more file storage mediums 142internal or external to computer 132 for storing data, a disk storagemedium, disk drive 136, and disk drive 142 to aid in the storage of andto store selected data. Interfaces 138,140 between computer 132 andexternal accessories, such as a display monitor 120, keyboard 148,pointing device 119 and a printer 122, may also be provided. Interface138 may also facilitate access to a local area network or other networkof computers (neither illustrated), e.g., data transfer input/output, ifrequired or desired. CPU 136 both controls, and is controlled by, otherhardware, as well as software stored in memory 134 and on a portion ofstorage medium 142. In the illustrated case, storage medium 142 takesthe form of a hard disk drive being internal to computer 132.

The invention herein is also drawn to a method of managing inventory. Inone embodiment, the method includes the steps of: placing items havingassociated RFID tags into an inventory store or container;electronically interrogating the associated RFID tags and making animmediate record thereof; electronically interrogating the associatedRFID tags upon removal of an item from the container; immediatelyrecording the item removed from the container; updating one or morefiles in a billing and inventory management system to indicate the itemhaving been removed; periodically electronically interrogating an areacontaining the item that had been removed from the container; and if theitem having an associated RFID tag does not respond to the interrogatingdevice, then updating one or more files in the billing and inventorymanagement systems to indicate the non responsive event; and if the itemhas been returned to the container then immediately updating one or morefiles in the billing and inventory management systems. Moreparticularly, with reference to FIG. 6, the method 600 for trackinginventory comprises: stocking an inventory store 160; interrogating witha transceiver a radio frequency identification device associated withone or more articles in the inventory store 165; processing 170 acommunication with the transceiver to record the one or more articlesentering the inventory store to increase inventory; initializing a timer175 when the one or more articles are removed from the inventory store;interrogating 180 the one or more articles removed from the inventorystore; and

-   -   (a) decreasing 198 the inventory for the one or more articles if        the radio frequency identification device of one or more        articles removed from the inventory store indicates the one or        more articles have been used 185 to the transceiver        interrogation; and    -   (b) not changing 190 the inventory for the responding one or        more articles if the radio frequency identification device of        one or more articles removed from the inventory store response        indicates the one or more articles have not been used provided        that the reentering the one or more articles into the        interrogation field or the inventory store occurs before the        timer times out 195.

In one embodiment whether the one or more articles have been used isdetermined if the radio frequency identification device is destroyed. Inyet another embodiment, whether the one or more articles have been usedis determined if the antenna is severed as an indication of articleusage. In yet another embodiment, whether the one or more articles havebeen used is determined if an associated pair of radio frequencyidentification devices installed on an article produce receptions atdifferent intervals of time. In yet another embodiment, whether the oneor more articles have been used is determined if a first radio frequencyidentification device antenna is destroyed and a second radio frequencyidentification device antenna remains functional.

It is expressly intended that all combinations of those elements thatperform substantially the same function in substantially the same way toachieve the same results are within the scope of the invention.Substitutions of elements from one described embodiment to another arealso fully intended and contemplated.

1. A system for tracking inventory comprising: an inventory store; oneor more transceivers for interrogating one or more radio frequencyidentification devices associated with one or more articles; saidarticles including a disabling means and a radio frequencyidentification device antenna integral to a seal, wherein the disablingmeans acts upon the seal to disable the antenna; a processor incommunication with said one or more transceivers; code operable by theprocessor to increase the inventory when the one or more articles enterthe inventory store; code operable by the processor to initiate a timerwhen the one or more articles are removed from the inventory store. 2.The system of claim 1, further including code operable by the processorto decrease the inventory if one or more transceiver interrogations of afield indicate that the one or more articles removed from the inventorystore does not respond to the interrogation or have been used; andwherein if one or more transceiver interrogations of a field indicatethat the one or more articles removed from the inventory store have notbeen used, then the inventory is unchanged for the responding one ormore articles provided that the timer has not timed.
 3. The system ofclaim 1, wherein one or more transceiver/repeater combinations enableinterrogation of all associated radio frequency identification deviceswithin a space.
 4. The system of claim 1, further including a UniversalProduct Code reader to self-purchase articles.
 5. The system of claim 1,wherein the radio frequency identification device is adapted to bedestroyed as an indication of the removed item being used.
 6. The systemof claim 1, wherein when the article is opened the antenna isdysfunctional as an indication of article usage.
 7. The system of claim1, wherein an associated pair of radio frequency identification devicesare installed on an article.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein thetransceiver detects the reception of two associated radio frequencyidentification devices at different intervals of time as indication thatthe article has been used.
 9. The system of claim 1, wherein two or moretransceivers determine if an associated pair of radio frequencyidentification devices each installed on separate parts of an articleproduce receptions from different locations as an indication that thearticle has been used.
 10. The system of claim 6, whereupon opening ofthe article a first radio frequency identification device antenna ismade dysfunctional and a second radio frequency identification deviceantenna remains functional.
 11. The system of claim 7, wherein differentintervals of time indicate that the separate parts of the articleassociated with the pair of radio frequency identification devices havebeen separated.
 12. A container comprising: a disabling means and aradio frequency identification device antenna integral to a seal,wherein the disabling means acts upon the seal to open the container anddisable the antenna.
 13. A container comprising: a cap; a body; a tab;and an associated antenna connected to the tab and the body of thecontainer, wherein removal of the tab disables the antenna.
 14. Thecontainer of claim 12, wherein the container is one of a canister orbottle.
 15. The container of claim 12, wherein the container is ashrink-wrap container.
 16. The container of claim 12, wherein theassociated antenna forms a grid.
 17. A seal comprising: a disablingmeans and a radio frequency identification device antenna integral tothe seal, wherein the disabling means acts upon the seal to disable theantenna.
 18. The seal of claim 17, wherein the seal is a shrink bandseal.
 19. A label comprising: a disabling means and a radio frequencyidentification device antenna integral to the label, wherein thedisabling means acts upon the label to disable the antenna.
 20. Thelabel of claim 19, wherein the label is a shrink label.
 21. A method fortracking inventory comprising: interrogating a radio frequencyidentification device associated with one or more articles in aninventory store; processing a communication to record one or morearticles entering the inventory store to increase inventory;initializing a timer when one or more articles are removed from theinventory store; interrogating the one or more articles removed from theinventory store; and (a) disabling a radio frequency identificationdevice antenna integral to a seal enabling use of the article; (b)decreasing the inventory for the one or more articles if theinterrogation of one or more articles removed from the inventory storeindicate that the radio frequency identification device antenna isdisabled; and (c) not changing the inventory for the responding one ormore articles if the radio frequency identification device of one ormore articles removed from the inventory store response indicate the oneor more articles have not been used provided that reentering the one ormore articles into the interrogation field or the inventory store occursbefore the timer times out.
 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the oneor more articles are determined as used if the antenna is disabled onthe one or more articles.
 23. The method of claim 21, wherein the one ormore articles are determined as used if an associated pair of radiofrequency identification devices installed on an article producereceptions at different intervals of time.
 24. The method of claim 21,wherein the one or more articles are determined as used is determined ifan associated pair of radio frequency identification devices installedon an article produce receptions from different locations.
 25. Themethod of claim 21, wherein the one or more articles are determined asused if a first radio frequency identification device antenna isdisabled and a second radio frequency identification device antennaremains functional.